South Africa Alert Update
29 January 2010
Lawyers demand more time to prepare

Lawyers representing e.tv will make representations to the National Director of Public Prosecutions Menzi Simelani on 4 February 2010 regarding subpoenas served on two of its journalists. e.tv was expected to make representations on 28 January 2010 but requested extension to strengthen their representations to the director, Simelani is looking at the request considering whether to grant them the extension.

A stand – off between e.tv journalists and the police was avoided on 25 January 2010 as the parties agreed to mediation. This decision followed a 1999 memorandum of understanding between the then ministry of law and order, the ministry of justice and the South African Editors’ Forum (SANEF).

Meanwhile, Daily Dispatch reporter Asa Sokopo is also expected to appear in  court after being served with a subpoena Section 205 notice to provide information to police.

BACKGROUND

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) party has demanded e.tv to help police arrest the criminals who threatened to rob World Cup tourists during interviews broadcast by the station recently. The move came following police decision to have two eNews journalists subpoenaed, after a story was broadcast on criminals' plans for the Soccer World Cup.  Reporter Mpho Lakaje's story, aired on 16 January 2010, featured interviews with two criminals. One said he would rob tourists during the World Cup. Another said he would shoot his way out of a standoff with police if he felt his life was in danger.

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